Cognitive deficits in adult patients after anesthesia in non-cardiac surgery

Abstract

Studies of the early 21st century indicate that the decline in cognitive functionis as a complication of anesthesia and operative intervention. Whether there would be changes and the amount of changes in mental status will cause a type of anesthesia is a question that requires ananswer, which is the objective of this paper. Material and methods: Prospective study of 40 patients over the age of 60 during a three month period was performed. A  preoperative anesthetic assessment was used to evaluate overall health and to determine the degree of risk interventions (ASA status) according to age, type of operation, the choice of anesthesia,   and level of education.  To test mental status we used the Blessed test for orientation, memory and concentration (BOMC). We used the test to evaluate cognitive changes four times: pre-operative, and then on the first, second, and seventh days following the operation. We then performed  a  statistical analysis of the results. Results: The results obtained from the post-operative BOMC test suggest cognitive changes in patients with orthopedic, urologic, and digestive surgery. There were significant results in four patients. Conclusion: It takes a multidisciplinary approach to solving cognitive dysfunctions. Early recognition of POD (postoperative  delirium) I POCD (postoperative cognitive deficit) reduces hospitalization, as well as it improves the quality of life of patients.